Captaincy an honour for Ashley Young

Saturday 21st May 2011, 11:26AM BST.

Ashley Young
Ashley Young

Ashley Young admits it has been a “massive honour” to captain Villa as the days count down towards a  decision on his future.

Villa face Liverpool in their final Premier League game of the season tomorrow in what could turn out to be Young’s last appearance in a claret and blue shirt.

All eyes will be on the 25-year-old winger at the final whistle to see whether he gives any indication to the Villa supporters as to whether he will remain at the club.

Young is a confirmed target for Liverpool while Manchester United are also reported to be interested but, whatever the outcome of his decision ,the player will always cherish his opportunity to lead the side.

“Being given the captaincy was a massive honour for me and it’s a proud moment every time I put on the armband,” said Young.

“Obviously Stiliyan Petrov is back in the team and I’m grateful for a captain like him.  But whenever we go out on the pitch there’s always 11 leaders and 11 captains.

“Everybody talks to each other, we’ve got great team spirit and great character in the squad.

“One person’s got the armband but there are 11 of us out there looking to take responsibility and to take the club forward and that’s what we’ve got to keep doing.”

Young continued:  “I’ve just been concentrating on everything that’s happened on the pitch and trying to get the points, whether that’s being involved in scoring or assists.

“I’m not sure what type of captain I am. I’m just one that wants to go out play football and be a leader.”

Meanwhile, defender Ciaran Clark is hopeful he can play some part in the game against Liverpool after he returned to training after a recent back injury.

“I’ve done strength work so I am back fit again and trained as normal,” added Clark.



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